Meet Stojadin, your ride through time
Stojadin was born in 1979, in Kragujevac, Serbia. But he’s not just a car, he’s a time machine on four wheels. Over 1.2 million Zastava 101s were produced between 1971 and 2008. Stojadin captures the spirit of that era when roads felt wider, drives were slower, and every journey was an adventure. This Zastava 101 story in Pula brings that spirit back to life.
A Balkan-Italian fusion
Stojadin runs on an Italian Fiat engine, making him a unique Balkan blend. With a 1,116 cc engine and 55 horsepower, he was built to roam the roads. His front-wheel drive and a practical fifth door were revolutionary at the time. This design made him one of the pioneers of European hatchbacks.
More than just a car
Though officially named Zastava 101, everyone called it Stojadin. The name is an old Serbian one, playfully rhyming with “101” (sto jedan). For many, he was more than a vehicle, he was family. People used him for travel, errands, and even as an improvised moving truck.
A global Ambassador
Stojadin wasn’t just popular in Yugoslavia. He was sold across the world and became an informal ambassador of the country. In the 1980s, many Yugoslav embassies in Africa, Asia, and South America used Stojadins as official cars. They were affordable, easy to repair, and had a quirky charm.
One amusing story comes from Ecuador. Yugoslavia imported bananas from there. Ships would bring bananas to Yugoslavia and then return loaded with Stojadins. It was true barter trade, bananas one way, cars the other!
Restored and ready
Today, Stojadin is lovingly restored and ready to take you on a nostalgic ride. It’s a Zastava 101 story from Pula, where you’ll you cruise scenic routes and let him transport you back to a time when every drive told a story.
Ready to experience it yourself? Join us for La Yugo Vita, Pula’s only retro tour in a vintage Stojadin.
Even with his little quirks – like a rattle here and there or needing a gentle push to get going – Stojadin’s charm is impossible to miss.
Ready to experience it yourself? Here is everything you need to know about La Yugo Vita.